For an Atwell Suites franchise, what is the deadline for notifying IHG of changes to the Final Plans after they have been approved?
Atwell_Suites Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
Thereafter, no change shall be made to the Final Plans without the prior written consent of IHG.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, after the Final Plans have been approved, if in the course of actual construction any change in the Final Plans occurs, Licensee shall notify IHG promptly, and in no event later than ten (10) days after Licensee becomes aware of or should have been aware of any such change.
Source: Item 23 — Receipts (FDD pages 99–486)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Atwell Suites' 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, once the Final Plans for construction have been approved by IHG, franchisees must promptly notify IHG of any changes that occur during actual construction. The notification deadline is no later than ten (10) days after the franchisee becomes aware or should have been aware of the change. This requirement ensures that IHG maintains oversight of the construction process and that any deviations from the approved plans are reviewed and approved in a timely manner.
This notification timeframe is crucial for franchisees to adhere to, as failure to report changes within the specified period could lead to delays in the construction process or potential violations of the franchise agreement. Franchisees should establish internal monitoring procedures to ensure that any changes to the Final Plans are promptly identified and reported to IHG within the ten-day window. This may involve close communication with contractors and regular site inspections to identify any deviations from the approved plans.
The requirement for prior written consent for any changes to the Final Plans and the subsequent notification deadline are standard practices in the franchise industry, particularly in the hospitality sector. These measures are designed to protect the brand's integrity and ensure consistency across all franchised locations. By maintaining control over the construction process, Atwell Suites aims to ensure that each hotel meets its established standards and provides a consistent guest experience.
Furthermore, Atwell Suites also requires that changes to the FF&E Specs (furniture, fixtures, and equipment specifications) and Life Safety system drawings be submitted within ten days of the change. These requirements highlight the importance of franchisees maintaining open communication with Atwell Suites throughout the construction and build-out phases of the hotel.